Paul Yap

Sunday, October 23, 2016

Day's End in Santa Monica

May 11, 2014

Santa Monica, California

"Beauty so unavoidable, everywhere you turn. It's there I sit and wonder what am I doing here?" - Savage Garden, 1998.

Located within the Palos Verdes Peninsula in Los Angeles County, Rancho Palos Verdes is a stark opposite to the crowded and busy downtown LA which is about thirty miles away. The affluent neighborhood boasts of majestic views of Santa Catalina Island and of the Pacific Ocean. The combination of rolling hills and steep cliffs offers both residents and visitors alike unique landscapes in every direction. While in the LA metropolitan area, both the Point Vicente Lighthouse and the Wayfarers Chapel are requisite destinations that can provide hours of endless tranquility. The drive out to the area is therapeutic in and of itself.

Lines and Light to Heaven

May 11, 2014

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels

Los Angeles, California, USA

Completed: 2002

Architect: Rafael Moneo

Photo Walk: Downtown Houston

March 12, 2016

It has been a while since I last walked downtown. I'm glad Aaron suggested that we go out and shoot, because last Saturday's weather was very pleasant and it was perfect for doing some urban walking. We barely took pictures because we got caught up chatting about photography and life in general. If you want to join us next time, send me a message and suggest a date.

Chicago Auto Show 2016: Production American and Asian Cars

February 12, 2016

McCormick Place

Chicago, IL

The last part is a short collection of the cars from the Asian and American auto manufacturers. As with the previous two parts, the photos wouldn't be a comprehensive account of the whole auto show because I focused mostly on the cars that interested me at that moment. Sure, I wish I had covered more of the show, but that would have required me to be there another day. The Chicago Auto Show is that large, and I honestly think I barely scratched the surface. I hope you guys have enjoyed the photos so far, and have possibly already come up with a shortlist for your new car purchase this year.

Chicago Auto Show 2016: Production European Cars

February 12, 2016

McCormick Place

Chicago, IL

For the second part of my 2016 Chicago Auto Show coverage, let us start with the production cars from Europe. There was a very good showing from the Euro brands, with the big companies from Germany leading the pack. Mercedes Benz had a very nice design for their booth. It easily complemented the elegance of their cars. Proceed with the rest of the photos and drool. Enjoy, regardless!

Chicago Auto Show 2016: Concept and Non-Production Cars

February 12, 2016

McCormick Place

Chicago, IL

Let me start by sharing the back-story of how I was able to attend the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. Dianne and I were already scheduled to be in Chicago a week before I even found out about the auto show. Since Dianne was supposed to be busy with some business stuff on Thursday and Friday, I decided to search the internet for events going on during those days and the weekend. Lo and behold, the Chicago Auto Show was also scheduled for the same weekend that we were in town. Fortunately, their media registration policy allows for on-the-spot application. So, everything worked out perfectly.

Holiday Sale

For my birthday this year, I am doing something special for you guys. If you've known me for quite some time now, you would be somewhat familiar with the Gift-a-Portrait that I usually do during my birthday month. I am still doing that this year but I will be sharing more details about that on the exact day of my birthday.

This year, I am offering a 30% discount for portrait sessions. Why 30%, you ask? It is not a random number that I just picked. Since I will be turning 30 this year, I decided to give the same numerical value for the discount. Also, in addition to my upcoming birthday, I am in the holiday mood to give y'all more this year.

With that said, any portrait session bookings starting today up until January 21, 2016 will receive a 30% discount. I am based in Houston, TX so please put that into consideration. I am willing to travel if you so wish, but that would be a separate arrangement.

Be sure to contact me for your portrait needs. Merry Christmas, y'all!

Monday, December 7, 2015

Saturday Mini Adventure

December 5, 2016

Texas Medical Center

Houston, TX

This weekend was full of activities and fun for me and Dianne. We were busy to say the least, and we're glad we were more active this time. We decided to get out and take our bikes for a short ride to the Texas Medical Center, and roam around the empty streets and buildings.

Austin Senior Portrait: Amara

November 14, 2015

University of Texas

Austin, Texas

We had a wonderful time during the photoshoot for Amara's senior photos. It was a chilly and gloomy Saturday morning, but she brought her bubbly attitude with her and smiled for the camera throughout the session. We can't say enough how much we love your photos, Amara. Congratulations on your graduation this weekend! Have a blast!

Austin Engagement: Huy and Armi

August 1-2, 2015

Austin, TX

We shot Huy and Armi's engagement photos about three months ago in Austin, Texas, and the weather couldn't have been any prettier during those two days. Huy and Armi are definitely a lovely couple and it shows in their chemistry in front of the camera. Interesting fact: both of them are in civil service. We can't wait to finally shoot their wedding this coming Saturday!

Good Morning LA: Views from Up High

May 11, 2014

Griffith Observatory

Los Angeles, CA

Admittedly, these are old photos from my visit with Dianne to California back in 2014. We have been to California again this year, but those photos will have to wait until after I have finished working on the ones from last year. There are numerous beautiful spots in California, and we barely scratched the surface with our one week stay, let alone the two days in LA.

Quick Stop in Palm Springs

April 8, 2015

Palm Springs, CA

Brunch with the Siblings in Austin

August 16, 2015

Hillside Farmacy

Austin, TX

Since my brother and sister in Austin were moving to a new apartment unit, we grabbed the opportunity and made the move-in weekend a sibling outing. The usual suspects were present, except for my sister in Dallas. In place of her, our youngest brother Paolo tagged along. Being the baby of the family, Paolo usually does not get the chance to hang out with the big kids. But now that he is taller and bigger than most of us, and a little bit more responsible too, he gets the chance to come and help with the move, and of course explore Austin with the more responsible adults (ahem).

Anniversary Breakfast

August 7, 2015

CoCo

Houston, TX

Last Friday was our civil wedding anniversary. Dianne and I decided to celebrate this milestone by going out for breakfast and trying some place new. We scouted for places that are dog-friendly since we planned to take our dogter Leica with us. Fortunately, Houston has a good number of brunch places that allow dogs in their outdoor dining areas.

Barbecue Pit Stop

July 11, 2015

City Market

Luling, TX

Sun and Sea

June 28, 2015

Basang-basa Coral Beach, San Joaquin

Iloilo, Philippines

The blog has been kind of neglected for the past 3 months, and I apologize for that. I just got pretty busy with travel, work, and errands in between. Dianne and I will be out of the country again in a month, so I want to push out as much of these photos out as possible. I have more than a year's worth of photos in the back burner waiting to be edited and shared. Luckily, there will definitely be a lot of content for the coming days.